Acetaminophen is one of the oldest medications commonly administered in children. Its efficacy in treating fever and pain is well accepted among clinicians. However, the available evidence supporting the use of acetaminophen’s different modes of administration remains relatively scarce and poorly known. This short report summarizes the available evidence and provides a framework to guide clinicians regarding a rational use of acetaminophen in children.

 

Conclusion

Acetaminophen is effective in treating pain and fever in children. Oral and rectal acetaminophen are generally well tolerated when staying within the recommended dosing range, whereas IV acetaminophen may cause hypotension in critically ill patients. In most instances, oral acetaminophen is the preferred administration route.
Rectal administration should be reserved for children unable to tolerate the oral route. Intravenous acetaminophen is restricted to inpatient care to manage moderate to severe pain or for strict temperature control in critical situations when oral absorption may be compromised.